Cognitive Dissonance Theory
The theory that we act to reduce the discomfort we feel when two of our thoughts are inconsistent.
Absolute Threshold
Minimum stimulation needed to detect a particular stimulus 50% of the time.
Algorithms
Methodical, logical rules that guarantees solving a particular problem.
Cognition
Mental activities associated with thinking, knowing, remembering, and communicating.
Control Group
Group in an experiment that does not receive the treatment.
Correlation
Measure of the extent to which two variables change together.
Confirmation Bias
Tendency to search for information that supports our preconceptions.
Arousal Theory
Theory of motivation suggesting that people are motivated to maintain an optimal level of alertness and physical and mental activation.
Attachment
An emotional tie with another person.
Altruism
Unselfish regard for the welfare of others.
Aggression
Any physical or verbal behavior intended to harm someone physically or emotionally.
Critical Period
An optimal period shortly after birth when an organism's exposure to certain stimuli or experiences produces proper development.
Adolescence
The transition period from childhood to adulthood, extending from puberty to independence.
Crystallized Intelligence
Our accumulated knowledge and verbal skills; tends to increase with age.
Conformity
Adjusting behavior or thinking to coincide with a group standard.
Biopsychosocial Model
A model that sees health as a result of biological, psychological, and social factors.
Autism Spectrum Disorder
A disorder that appears in childhood and is marked by significant deficiencies in communication and social interaction, and by rigidly fixated interests and repetitive behaviors.
Consciousness
Our awareness of ourselves and our environment.
Confounding Variable
Factor other than the independent variable that might produce an effect.
Attraction
Factors that draw members of a species together.
Classical Conditioning
Learning process where a previously neutral stimulus becomes associated with a different stimulus to elicit a reflex response.
Bipolar Disorder
A mood disorder in which the person alternates between the hopelessness and lethargy of depression and the overexcited state of mania.
Antisocial Personality Disorder
A personality disorder in which a person (usually a man) exhibits a lack of conscience for wrongdoing, even toward friends and family members.
Cross-Sectional Study
A study in which people of different ages are compared with one another.
Bystander Effect
The tendency for any given bystander to be less likely to give aid if other bystanders are present.